Aims

This working group will focus on enhancing the visibility and application of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, thereby strengthening its scientific and institutional impact within the CSIC and beyond. We plan several strategic objectives to enhance the dissemination of BCB research. This includes activities such as workshops, educational events (e.g., science week), and the creation of dissemination materials such as video games, simulations, or multimedia content (e.g., YouTube videos). We plan to develop a portfolio of outreach activities accessible to all members of the BCB Connection and establish connections with other bioinformatics networks. Additionally, we will work to promote the BCB's technological offerings through informational videos targeted at companies and organise dedicated events to showcase these technologies, facilitating connections with consultants and transfer agents. Finally, we intend to invite leading companies from the sector to participate in conferences to encourage collaboration and knowledge exchange.

This working group will focus on highlighting the development and application of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics, thereby increasing its scientific and institutional relevance within the CSIC and beyond. To this end, and in collaboration with the Talent attraction and training and the Outreach working groups, we plan to develop a portfolio of outreach activities available to all members of the BCB Connection, in order to build the BCB community and establish connections with other bioinformatics networks. We will also promote the BCB's technological offerings through informational videos aimed at companies, and organise dedicated events to map these offerings and connect with consultants and technology transfer agents. Finally, we plan to invite relevant companies from the sector to our meetings to encourage collaboration and knowledge exchange.

The working group is focused on a series of actions to strengthen relationships with the Academia and to improve the visibility of scholarship programs and training opportunities at CSIC. Planned activities include organising a variety of training opportunities, such as courses, webinars, and workshops, along with offering internships and projects. Special emphasis will be placed on dedicated BCB JAE scholarships to promote collaboration within the network and with universities. Additionally, it proposes attracting staff involved in master's programs, promoting the participation of CSIC researchers in these programs, and creating a catalog of CSIC master's thesis (TFM) opportunities for universities. The group also aims to influence the content of Computational Biology and Bioinformatics in master's programs by involving CSIC experts in the field.

This working group focuses on a series of actions to strengthen the relationship with master's and undergraduate students, and to improve the visibility of scholarship programs and research opportunities at the CSIC. It also proposes attracting staff involved in master's programs, promoting teaching by CSIC researchers in these programs, creating a catalog of CSIC master's thesis (TFM) opportunities for universities, and strengthening the Computational Biology and Bioinformatics content of master's programs through the participation of CSIC experts in the field.

This working group aims to enhance the integration and professional development of researchers at BCB. It proposes the creation of a comprehensive welcome package that provides information on available infrastructure and services, as well as the assignment of a mentor to guide new members through the CSIC environment. Additionally, it seeks to integrate infrastructures into resource mapping and explore infrastructure federation to share resources and promote more sustainable computing practices. The group will promote the use of Digital CSIC tools, alongside providing training in the maintenance of existing computing equipment. Efforts will also be made to advocate for the creation of positions for software and hardware support technicians to facilitate talent recruitment, particularly in light of the current technician shortage. This will include exploring options to attract non-EU talent.

The main objective of this working group is to conduct a comprehensive mapping of competencies at three levels: individuals, tools, and services. It emphasises the need to include information on research lines and services, contact details, and educational resources. Creating a portal, organised by thematic areas and utilising a controlled vocabulary to facilitate searches, is proposed. While the Connection has begun gathering information about its members, there is a recognised need to complete this process and present the data in a structured and accessible manner. Additionally, specific actions are proposed, such as organising workshops and hackathons to foster a community of users for these tools, establishing the portal, and creating a structured, easy-to-maintain database.

One of the primary objectives of the Connection is to understand the needs of early-career scientists and technicians who have recently joined CSIC centres. To this end, a working group of young professionals will offer first-hand insights into the challenges and concerns encountered during their early stages of technical and scientific careers at CSIC. They will also play a key role in proposing solutions through initiatives such as mentoring, raising the visibility of the BCB community, creating a comprehensive welcome package, and integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into relevant activities. Furthermore, this group will participate in ongoing projects while proposing and promoting new activities and initiatives.